Biography

Assemblymember Jose Medina begins his third term in the Assembly continuing his appointment as chair of the Assembly Committee on Higher Education. Mr. Medina feels that an educated workforce is crucial to the success of California. Current and past chairmanship positions include, chair of the Assembly Jobs, Economic Development and the Economy Committee, chair of the California-Mexico Bi-National Affairs Select Committee, preserving California’s businesses and partnerships.

Medina was first elected to the California State Assembly in 2012, he represents California's 61st Assembly District, which consists of Riverside, Moreno Valley, Perris and Mead Valley.

During his first term in the Assembly, Medina led the effort to ensure the University of California, Riverside Medical School received $15 million of full and continuous funding through the state budget, to train students for crucial jobs in the health-care industry. In turn, those jobs will strengthen the region’s economy, as well as improve health care accessibility in the Inland Empire. Additionally, Medina passed legislation which assisted small businesses, helped protect seniors, and improved goods movement throughout the state.

Medina brings to the legislature a lifetime of experience in education from his many years as a teacher with the Riverside Unified School District, also serving as a member of the Riverside City Teachers Association, and a representative to the state council of the California Teachers Association (CTA).

Medina's eagerness to assist students beyond the classroom motivated him to pursue public office. He served as school board member on the Jurupa Unified School District Board of Education and completed three successful terms on the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees.

During his tenure as a Trustee, he chaired the Teaching and Learning Committee and supported establishing independent colleges in Riverside, Moreno Valley and Norco. Medina recognizes the critical role higher education plays in supporting jobs and opening up the doors for opportunity. He graduated from UC Riverside with a bachelor's degree in Latin American Studies, and a master's degree in History.

Assemblymember Medina has two adult children, and two grandchildren. He currently resides in Riverside with his wife, Linda.